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Friday Five | Fall Bucket List

November 4, 2016

hoping my calligraphy class will set me up for success for setting the table on Thanksgiving

hoping my calligraphy class will set me up for success when setting the Thanksgiving table

It’s November, and there are new people in this world, notably Lyndsey’s baby. Her hands will be very literally full, so I’m savoring this admittedly selfish time in my life where I can go out and about with WD, friends, family and just me. So, today’s Friday Five features my Fall bucket list.

TO FIND :: a colored heel (like this jade pump or oxblood mary jane) to go with a simple holiday party dress

TO WRITE :: thank you notes (pretty paper please!) to the people I’m grateful for but won’t be with on November 24th to tell them so

TO WATCH :: a showing of Lost in Translation at Market Square’s at their monthly outdoor movie feature

TO MAKE :: the perfect mac & cheese, starting here — get your spoons ready

TO LEARN :: calligraphy, courtesy of A Fine Flourish for the fanciest Thanksgiving placeholders

Here’s fifteen classic fall recipes for all my foodies to make. Enjoy this fall Friday!

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary

Coffee Talk, Featured, Friday Five, Kids, Lifestyle, Motherhood

Take the time to waste a moment | The big 3-5

October 28, 2016

I’m 35 today. That’s a LOT of candles.

| Take the time to waste a moment |

When I was 27, single and traveling 24/7 working on a Presidential campaign I didn’t foresee a husband and 3 kids at 35. A LOT has happened in the past 8 years that’s for sure. My Mom always told me my 30’s would be my best years. They have certainly been the most major of years in my life, a husband and almost three kids later. I look back over my 30’s so far and if I can take one thing away for the next 5 it’s to slow the F down and enjoy it all a little bit more. It’s not naturally in my DNA to do this. I didn’t realize it until I was talking to Leighton’s teacher about her personality and her feedback was exactly what I’d seen written on my report cards year over year. In so many words, lighten up! People see a fun, outgoing exterior but at the end of the day, I’m pretty intense and overly focused; Serious about being a good mom and wife to a fault that I dwell on my own shortcomings way too much. And serious about doing things in this word productivity wise—being successful in business, making money, contributing to my church and community. It’s exhausting and it’s time to slow my roll. Say yes to less. Take the time to waste a moment. And while I’m at it, enjoy the moment. Put the phone down. Nothing is that important that it can’t wait a few more minutes. This new mantra might not help my punctuality though. Oh well.

Wow, I really got off on a tangent there guys. I’m sure most of you have already clicked to the next thing on the internet by now so I’m probably just talking to me (and maybe my Grandma who reads this blog religiously). Anyhoo…..here’s to the next 5 years that make up what I will probably look back on as the best years ever.

All coffee talk aside, it wouldn’t be a birthday on L. Avenue without a wish list. Since it’s Friday, I’ll give y’all my Friday 5 ultimate birthday wish list.

top photo by Candid Chic

bottom photo by Traci Ling | my dress by Emilia Wickstead, shoes Jimmy Choo | kids dresses by Lullaby Set

Coffee Talk, Eats, Featured, Friday Five, Lifestyle

Friday Five | Get Well Soon

October 21, 2016

rainbow brunch at Houston’s Pondicheri :: beet pancakes and fresh squeezed OJ all day

At work, we’ve started a wellness challenge to put our best foot forward before we press rewind as we fa-la-la-la-la through the holiday festivities. So, today, the Friday Five is broken down into the five categories we’re competing with each other (and mostly ourselves) on daily:

Step It Up :: Reach 10,000 steps.

Never have I ever had a FitBit, so I’m finding out the hard way how difficult it is to hit the recommended ten thousand steps a day. These 13 tips should help, starting with shopping a little more and parking farther from the store!

Heartbeat High :: Increase your heart rate for 20 minutes.

My personal goal is to go to a workout class three times a week. I’ve found my favorite instructor at my gym, which I’ve found to be a game-changer in motivating me to show up. If you don’t have a gym membership, here’s ways to shake up your exercise routine.

Waterlogged :: Drink a gallon of water.

What I’m finding even harder is to guzzle a gallon of water a day. Read this honest testament about how more water makes for more energy and fewer face blemishes.

0% Alcohol :: Consume zero alcohol.

What helps increase my water intake is decreasing my alcohol consumption. But, when I need a change of pace, I reach for things like prickly pear Kombucha at Local Foods. Its fuchsia color few me to the fermented drink, so here’s why we should all indulge in the most colorful foods.

How Sweet Homecookin’ :: No eating out allowed.

No UberEatsing or Favoring fast food for us; we’re prepping all our meals at home, people. Here’s how the girls at Cupcakes + Cashmere make their favorite restaurant meals at home. I can’t wait to try to copy the Sway Thai‘s Tom Kha Gai now that it’s cold outside.

Join us if you’re so inclined, but keep in mind, we push the pause button for Friday and Saturday. We’ll reset Sunday, so treat yourself. It’s the weekend!

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary

Coffee Talk, Featured, Friday Five, Lifestyle, Uncategorized

Friday Five | Entertainment Edition

September 30, 2016

When given the choice between a computer or television screen, I’d make do with my Mac any day. But, since starting a full-time job, I’ve been reminded of how relaxing it can be to sit in front of a television set and enter a new world. So, today, I give you the entertainment edition of the Friday Five, full of the things I’m enjoying in hopes that you might, too.

What I’m reading :: My book club met Wednesday night to discuss You’ll Grow Out of It, a refreshing comedy by Jessi Klein who covers the complete gamut of relatable guilty pleasures for girls like Anthropologie and The Bachelor. Next up is The Thousandth Floor, authored by Katharine McGee, my good friend’s sister, so I’d read it regardless of the fact that it made the New York Times bestseller list.

TV I’m tuning into :: William and I just finished HBO’s The Night Of. We were wary of the ending as more than a few friends said it was unsatisfying. Turns out, I loved it start to finish and highly recommend it.

the heavenly honeymooning in Menorca c/o @chaneldror‘s feed

Who I’m following :: This weekend starts my wedding marathon which won’t settle until February. I’m excited to see how my friends and family style their festivities, taking mental notes for my own. I’m off to a good start, spending a good chunk of last weekend screenshotting photos from former co-worker, Chanel’s, wedding. Follow @chaneldror or #jetaimetarlo to sneak a peek inside their chateau wedding weekend for aaall the amour feels.

What I’m listening to :: I’ve had Tove Lo’s Say It on repeat ever since it was the anthem of The Hamptons. Also loving this song.

Movies I’m watching :: The oldies - classed Casablanca off my list (inspired by my Insta), then fast-forwarded to Say Anything, an 80s flick Say Anything and most recently watched Richard Gere and Winona Ryder in Autumn in New York, filmed in 2000. I hope to find a recent gem for me and W to watch tonight. Recs welcome!

Have a great weekend.

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary

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Around {H} Town + Travel, Fashion, Featured, Friday Five, Lifestyle

Friday Five | Full Circle Fashion

September 16, 2016

I’ve finally hit that sweet spot age when I’ve seen my first major fashion trend go full-circle. It’s the jean skirt, which faded when I entered high school but as of late, I’ve spied a few here and there, then saw every sorority girl sporting one at the UT ND game. I knew it wasn’t just me when I saw them on display at J. Crew.

The denim skirt has resurrected from the dead. This petite moto version might be the only one I’ll go for because I like its length.

Perhaps this city coat is more practical for winter, though. But…which color people?!

I’d say I’m not into mediation, but I’d also say I’ve never really tried. No better time than now with free classes all through September at the new Define life Studio.

With a fondness for both the writer and photographer behind this post, I had to read the story of the Pappy Van Winkle family. Born into a bourbon legacy, the real story is their strong family bond.

Next week will be all about beauty partly inspired by this post, which led me to this one. She saved the best tip for last on spending:

“if you could care less about what kind of car you drive, but love trying new restaurants as much as possible, then drive an old car…and bask in your restaurant budget.”

My dad gave me his old wheels and not having a car payment helps me justify scouring the Houston restaurant scene. Last night was Roost with William. This Sunday will be back in Austin for brunch in Clarksville with a birthday bestie and our boys.

Champagne & oysters — happy birthday to her and weekend to me. And all of you, too!

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary

Beauty, Featured, Lifestyle, Motherhood

My daily skin routine | Juice Beauty

September 12, 2016

I recently wrote one of the first beauty specific posts for L. Avenue and received a lot of great feedback. The post focused on highlighting a line I discovered and have been loyal to during my pregnancy, Juice Beauty. Read more about Juice Beauty’s all natural, organic skincare and make-up line here. After posting, I received a lot of questions about my daily beauty and skincare regimen. It’s great to educate ourselves with product reviews, but to me there’s so much more utility if you get to see exactly how each products plays a role into an ongoing routine. I know I’ve been victim to the “see it, sounds good, buy it” mantra with make-up and skincare. And then I get home and can’t remember when or how to apply the product and then shortly thereafter it ends up on the island of misfit (aka unused) beauty products. So here goes nothing. Hopefully, if y’all know exactly what products I use and when it will help you make decisions about which products to incorporate into your daily routine.

Around {H} Town + Travel, Coffee Talk, Fashion, Featured, Friday Five, Lifestyle, Sale, Uncategorized

Friday Five |Fall Sale Alert

August 26, 2016

biscotti & blue jean shorts for breakfast

It’s your Friday Five Sales Alert! When Lyndsey posted about her spirit state, she reminded me how much I love Brooke Feather. Despite being a bit out of my budget, I was excited to see a rack with a sign noting 70% off, and I snagged the perfect pair of denim cut-offs in my size. Mine were four-years old and had four-too-many holes.

Bonus incentive was discovering a huge role model of mine, Brettne, is besties with the Brooke Feather owner (and my sister!). A small world that makes shopping at boutiques more fun. But, today, I bring you the big brands, leading you to all the right links for steals on summer and fall styles.

Gap‘s suede game is strong this season. I still love the suede shift and jacket I got in New York in the coolest caramel color. Shop for yours and get 40% off with code More.

Speaking of suede, there’s a fabulous pair of green suede flare shorts on extra, extra sale at Intermix…among other darling things you didn’t know you needed until now.

J. Crew just launched their new collection, and plaid crop pant, my eyes are on you. Get 25% off with WEEKOFSTYLE when you check-out.

Get comfy in Calypso cotton and linen for your Labor Day weekend getaway or staycation.

And for local Houstonians, head to Biscuit Home next week for the Mi Golondrina pop-up. Get there at 2 sharp on Wednesday, August 31st as the gorgeous, hand-embroidered tops typically fly off the racks fast. And the dresses, which make for the prettiest maternity gown.

Happy shopping!

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary

Fashion, Featured, Friday Five, Lifestyle, Travel

Friday Five | Fashion Bug

August 19, 2016

My shopping habits ebb and flow, and this month, I swear I’ve been bitten by a fashion bug. I’m stocking up at the end-of-summer sales while making space for fall items. Like the suede shift I found for football season in NYC while shopping with my friend, MK, last September. We meet again this weekend in Montauk, this time with our guys by our side. I’m currently en route from island to island; here’s my links for the week!

Find out what kind of shopper you are; I closely identify with the “true creative” type.

Makes sense as I like to dress my desk as much as myself. This fig leaf mouse pad matches a fabric I just ordered for the designer I work for.

ZoeReport hit the nail on the head with 13 black sandals to replace your old ones. Apparently, I’m not the only one because my fringe favorites sold out fast. Any other finds?

William found a pot of Peter Millar, Bonobos and Patagonia gold when we went to Saint Bernard on Saturday. I snagged a couple swimsuits on sale: one’s packed for this weekend and saving the other for a lakeside Labor Day.

I bought a waterproof disposable camera and brought it to several waterfronts this summer. The prints turned out less than super, so I’m going old school digital with this guy.

Follow my Instagram, @bridgetsowndiary, for Polaroid poolside shots from the East Coast.

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary

Around {H} Town + Travel, Fashion, Featured, Lifestyle, Travel

What to WEAR | Charleston

August 18, 2016

Throughout our action-packed travel-filled summer, I put together lists upon lists of all of my favorite spots in Charleston, Santa Barbara, Hilton Head Island and Laguna Beach. I’m super excited to share the inside scoop on these cities with you and hope that you might find some inspiration for your own upcoming travel plans. One question that holds true for every trip prep is, “What do I wear here?” Every city has it’s own unique style and I like to blend in with the locals. Today, I’m sharing what I wore in Charleston earlier this summer.

Wardrobe wise, Charleston is relatively casual yet southernly sophisticated. Since we went during the heat of the summer I saw a lot of sun dresses, linen and bright florals on the ladies. Seersucker shorts and polos for the guys and khaki pants in all colors. Preppy southern gentlemen if you will. For daytime I put the girls in light linen dresses and more traditional smocked dresses for dinners out.

I was blown away by how much there is to see and do in Charleston, which will keep first timers like me coming back to this charming southern spot. There is something for everyone ranging from the antebellum historic sites such as Patriot’s Point or Fort Sumter, to the Children’s Museum and the South Carolina Aquarium for the kiddos. The shopping is insane, Hampden Clothing and Beckett Boutique among my favorites. I’m still full from eating our way through Charleston. The food was some of the best I’ve ever had. The Macintosh being my favorite dinner spot and The Peninsula Grill at Planter’s Inn for brunch. No matter what, be sure to pack a comfortable shoe because you can pretty much walk the entire city.

outfit details, clockwise from top left

outfit 2 | embroidered top and shorts | sandals | clutch

outfit 3 | boho top | linen pants | gladiator sandals | clutch

Around {H} Town + Travel, Coffee Talk, Eats, Interiors, Lifestyle, Travel

Friday Five | The Little Things

August 12, 2016

little things, like looking up, can change your perspective on your week

As I added a coffee date with Lyndsey this morning to my calendar, I noted the charming ‘event name’ example text Google provides: “Breakfast At Tiffany’s.” It’s the little things that can make a big difference during your week. So, here’s some little links and things that made mine. Hopefully, yours too.

on-point design :: I’m heading to The Hamptons next weekend to put the ultimate exclamation mark on my summer. And I’m. So. Excited! While I plan to spend most of my time outdoors, I hope to scope out the modern interior of this hotel in Montauk.

future fantasizing :: My brother and soon-to-be sis-in-law are going to New Zealand for their honeymoon; my bestie and her fiancé are also crossing the Pacific to Thailand. Here several bloggers dish it out on their chosen destinations.

but also being present :: I’m nearly done with Bread & Wine and can’t wait to start Present Over Perfect with a Bible study group. For all you moms about to enter the fall frenzy of back-to-school, packing lunches and pretending to be sane, this read might be for you too.

savoring the season :: I had aaaall of the summer things last night with almost aaall of my sisters: a watermelon cocktail, a peach burrata salad and an eggplant entrée. It was szechuan at State of Graceand and totally insane. Here’s some other delicious ways to serve eggplant.

planning ahead :: I’m also putting my white ensembles on heavy rotation before Labor Day hits, especially last weekend at White Linen Night in the Heights. But, my eyes are peeled for the winter ahead and having borrowed my mom’s black coat all last year, I figured it was time to invest in my own. Here she is, shipping to my doorstep soon! Maybe got these beauty booties too.

But since we’re clearly still in the midst of summer, get your hands on the bag of the season. Rest assured, it’ll carry you through next spring and summer, too. Or you’ll carry it, rather 🙂

-Molly Bridget of Bridget’s Own Diary